Overview

The Master of Arts in Sociology at San Diego State University provides a comprehensive foundation in advanced sociological theory and diverse research methodologies. This two-year programme is designed to prepare students for doctoral-level study or immediate entry into professional fields such as teaching, policy analysis, and social justice advocacy. Students engage with a rigorous curriculum that addresses contemporary global and local social issues.

Why Sociology at San Diego State University?

The department offers a unique environment where students can develop professional teaching and research experience while receiving financial support. Many participants serve as teaching assistants, leading introductory sections, or work as graduate assistants on faculty-led research projects funded by grants. The university's geographical location also facilitates distinctive research opportunities regarding international trans-border and trans-cultural studies.

Students benefit from a collegial culture and close mentorship from faculty experts. The programme encourages active participation in the academic community, with many students publishing policy reports or presenting original research at prestigious regional and national conferences. Facilities and resources support a wide range of specialisations, from urban sociology to the study of social inequalities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 8548 per year
National fee: USD 8548 per year
Local fee: USD 8548 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of a series of 10 courses, culminating in either a primary research thesis or a comprehensive examination. Modules may include:

Sociological Theory
Research Methods
Criminology
Race and Ethnicity
Globalization
Media and Culture
Demography
Immigration
Sexualities and Gender

Careers with Sociology

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped for a variety of professional paths in both the public and private sectors. Many alumni successfully transition into highly-ranked PhD programmes at major research institutions. Others apply their analytical and methodological skills to careers in higher education administration, non-profit leadership, and government research.

Common career destinations and roles for graduates include:

University or Community College Instructor
Quantitative Researcher for Government Agencies
Non-profit Programme Administrator
Social Justice Advocate
Policy Analyst
Academic Advisor
Legal Professional

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Advanced Classical Social Theory: Core Course

Advanced Contemporary Social Theory: Core Course

Advanced Quantitative Methods: Core Course

Advanced Qualitative Methods: Core Course

Topics in Directed Readings

Experimental Topics

Seminar in Social Theory

Seminar in Social Institutions

Thesis

Thesis Extension

Comprehensive Examination Extension

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Sociology View 371 other Masters in Sociology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Complete the Cal State Apply Application

Create an SDSU WebPortal Account

Submit Official Transcripts and Diploma/Degree Certificate

Submit Official Test Scores

Submit Program Specific Documents

Applicants who have earned a three-year baccalaureate degree from an international institution, may be considered for admission.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

11548 USD / year

≈ 11548 USD / year
Out-of-State

11548 USD / year

≈ 11548 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8548 USD / year

≈ 8548 USD / year

Additional Details

Non-resident tuition: Add $444 per unit to the basic tuition and fees listed above.

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Sociology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

San Diego

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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